President Tinubu Embarks on Three-State Visit, Set to Spend End-of-Year Holidays in Lagos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to depart Abuja on Saturday for a three-state visit that will take him to Borno, Bauchi, and Lagos States, according to a statement released by the Presidency. The trip, which combines official government functions with ceremonial and cultural engagements, will conclude with the President spending the end-of-year holidays in Lagos.
The first leg of the visit will take the President to Borno State, where he is expected to commission a number of projects jointly undertaken by the administration of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and the Federal Government. These projects are part of ongoing efforts aimed at rebuilding infrastructure and improving public services in a state that has faced prolonged security and humanitarian challenges over the past decade.
While in Maiduguri, President Tinubu will also attend the wedding ceremony of Sadeeq Sheriff, the son of former Borno State Governor and Senator, Ali Modu Sheriff, and his bride, Hadiza Kam Salem. The event is expected to attract several political leaders, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across the country, reflecting the continued role of social engagements in Nigeria’s political and public life.
From Borno, the President will proceed to Bauchi State for a condolence visit following the death of Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, the revered Islamic scholar and leader of the Tijjaniyya Muslim Brotherhood. Sheikh Dahiru, who passed away on November 27, was widely respected across Nigeria and beyond for his scholarship, religious leadership, and contributions to Islamic education.
During the visit, President Tinubu is expected to pay his respects to the Bauchi State Government, the family of the late cleric, and members of the Tijjaniyya community. The condolence visit underscores the significance of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s influence in religious and social circles, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
After concluding his engagements in Bauchi, President Tinubu will travel to Lagos State, where he will spend the end-of-year holidays. Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub and the President’s longtime political base, has traditionally been his preferred destination during festive periods.
While in Lagos, President Tinubu is expected to undertake several official and cultural engagements. One of the highlights of his stay will be his attendance as the guest of honour at the annual Eyo Festival, scheduled to hold on December 27 at the Tafawa Balewa Square. The Eyo Festival is one of Lagos State’s most iconic cultural events, symbolising the rich heritage and traditions of the indigenous Yoruba people.
This year’s festival is expected to honour prominent individuals, including the President’s mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, as well as late former Lagos State governors, Alhaji Lateef Jakande and Chief Michael Otedola, in recognition of their contributions to the development of the state.
The announcement of the President’s trip has generated widespread public reactions, reflecting Nigeria’s highly engaged political environment. While some citizens have welcomed the President’s continued presence within the country during the festive season, others have raised concerns about broader national issues, including security, economic hardship, and governance priorities.
Despite the differing opinions, the Presidency maintains that the visit aligns with President Tinubu’s responsibilities as both Head of State and Government, balancing official duties, cultural participation, and personal engagements during the holiday period.
The three-state visit once again places the President at the centre of national attention as the year draws to a close, amid ongoing discussions about leadership, governance, and the direction of the country heading into the new year.